My informal notes and personal commentary from last week's Parish Council meeting and Annual Assembly.

Annual Assembly Cllr Charlie Macfarlane addressed a packed Annual Assembly held in the new Mezzanine room at the recently refurbished Village Hall. An amazing turnout for a parish of this size! Everyone was thanked for their engagement. Too many groups and projects to remember or list!

Grants were awarded to Tiny Toads and to the Village Hall for their decoration project.

Additionally, a reminder was issued that the use of marked public footpaths by villagers and visitors alike is welcomed, though some issues have recently been reported. Please see the guidance here for more information.

Parish Council Meeting Cllr Alison Wall was elected as Chair for the next civic year, with Cllr Charlie Macfarlane appointed as Deputy.

A quick update was given on previous action points, and the minutes from the council's previous meeting were approved.

Regarding the GCC Councillor report, the Chair expressed disappointment that the 20mph limit was not included around the play area. There was also comment that GCC did not take the Speedwatch group's data into account relating to Tait's Hill.

(Myself and Cllr Braun spent quite some time at the Tait's Hill Public Inquiry at SDC over the last few weeks, supporting the Parish Council, Cam Parish Council, and Cam Community Action Group. Stroud District Council refused the outline application back in May 2025, but land agent Clifton Homes appealed to the Secretary of State. The final decision now rests with the Inspector, who is expected to announce his ruling in July.)

A question arose regarding my suggestion to 'call in' the Swedish Homes development at the last meeting and what that entails. At the parish level, this means elevating a planning application from an officer decision to one decided by the Development Control Committee. In the case of the Swedish Homes development, I discovered that this was already the case as SDC is submitting the application, so additional scrutiny and transparency need to be demonstrated.

The Clerk gave a verbal report. There was a general feeling that the recent LGR training was not particularly effective, as there are still so many unknowns.

A planning application relating to Church Barn was discussed, and a 'no comment' decision was made.

An update was provided by Kath Hudson's Environment and Biodiversity Group regarding the Nature Nurturing event held the previous Sunday afternoon at St Cyr's. It was chilly but dry, with a steady stream of visitors.

A productive discussion took place regarding welcome packs and the possibility of reprinting footpath leaflets.

Cllrs Braun, Cohen, and myself left early for a quick catch-up. #stinchcombe

My informal notes and personal comment from last night's Parish Council meeting. Cllr Braun and Cohen had sent apologies. Some discussion in the public forum about a heavy traffic sign that had been knocked down on Tait's Hill road.

October for the next litter pick, possibly the 11th time to be reviewed. Kath Hudson is retiring next month and a replacement is needed for Speedwatch group.

This month's SDC Councillors' report was circulated as in open document format, used by lots of software like LibreOffice & OpenOffice etc. Microsoft, it seems, has trouble opening such documents. Will revert to Microsoft's .docx format next month.

Consequently, I spent a bit longer than normal going though the report. The downsizing policies were well received. Discussion on the Lido. Chair commented on some items in Cllr Cohen's report.

Planning application S.26/0579/HHOLD 2 Nubbis Ashe, Berkeley Road, Berkeley was discussed – No Comment. Another was discussed, also No Comment.

Lots discussion about Appeal 6002408, Tait's Hill S.25/0447/OUT. I gave a summary of my very rough notes from a meeting with the SDC Planning Officer and Cllr Braun the previous day:-

Cllr Braun has contacted the Action group regarding best places to view the development. That's at SDC now, to work it up. Appellant sets the timetable and SDC asked for their views and fed into it. Will have to see how things unfold next week with what the Inspector decides.

Day one will work out if round-table is actually required. It looks like highways issues may have been 'resolved', SDC chasing GCC for info. Not sure how this works with the Speedwatch data, for example.

Day two is the site visit. Inspector to decide if alone or as a group. Landscaping later in the day.... Apparently BNG is resolved as appellant is offering 40% affordable housing. SDC checking. Open Space resolved through the s106 agreement. No schools contribution but that will be through CIL, probably, in collaboration with GCC. SDC checking. Severn Estuary monies are in the s106 agreement at £1k per dwelling (mitigation strategy).

Then followed an update on SDC development of Stinchcombe Swedish Houses. The Chair indicated, quite strongly, that they feel very dissatisfied by how they have been treated by SDC. Not only with the Swedish Homes but also the Tait's Hill application too. There was much concern about safety whilst egressing the Swedish houses site and exasperation that work to address this cannot be linked to the planning application. I've fed this back to SDC.

It is within my gift to 'call-in' the application, which I've offered to do. At least that will offer another opportunity to voice concerns.

As always, if you have any questions or just want a chat I'm easily contactable, phone numbers and e-mail on my home page. Use my contact info if you spot, errors or I've just got something completely wrong! Also, I'm not using Facebook much any more, but feel free to link and share these reports using whatever social media you fancy.

You can also find me on the Fediverse (social media without adverts, algorithms or outrage) here:– https://stroud.social/eco-g I've created another BlueSky as my last account was suspended on 'authenticity' grounds. tbh. I'm beyond caring about US Big Tech social media and would like them taxed out of existence.

#stinchcombe

My informal notes from last Wednesdays Parish Council meeting that I attended along with Cllr. Braun. Cllr Cohen sent apologies.

Normal formalities then a quick run through of action points and reports . The successful litter pick noted, last Sunday, one of the best turnouts ever. It was good fun! Composting bays built at St Cyr’s Nature Sanctuary. Material being prepared for Taits Hill Planning Inquiry. Kath's standing down from running the Speedwatch group in May. A new Community Camera Co-ordinator needed too. Volunteers required!

No questions on the SDC Councillors' Report but there has been a bit of movement on the Local Plan. The Inspectors will conduct a limited consultation on the latest highways assessments and will issue further questions. Only National Highways, GCC, South Gloucestershire Council and SDC will be invited to respond. Written exchanges.

SDC are required to begin work on a new Local Plan. A report will be presented to the April Council meeting.

Also, regarding Westridge Woods over at Wotton; a meeting has been arranged for 24 March with the Forestry Commission. There are a couple of formal complaints from residents that are raising attention.

Residents are again encouraged to share their views about the three proposals to  reorganise the district councils and county council in Gloucestershire (LGR) before a Government consultation closes on 26 March. For info – A majority of Stroud District Councillors (including the three Wotton ward councillors) voted to support a single unitary council for Gloucestershire. This is due to the disadvantages that would arise, for residents in Stroud district, if the county is split into two unitary councils for the East and West, and due to the extra cost, complexity and duplication that dividing county council services would cause. Link on the Stinchcombe Parish Council Web Site. https://stinchcombeparishcouncil.gov.uk/

I mentioned about GCC's introduction of the community-backed 20mph speed limits (an e-mail arrived in my inbox earlier) but didn't have any background so couldn't answer questions! Detail here: https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/gcc-news/news-march-2026/county-to-begin-work-on-roll-out-of-20mph-speed-limits

A planning application was discussed, conversion of an agricultural building at Home Farm. Various issues and few of the required assessments submitted. Amends to Hole 1 at the Golf Club and the felling of a sycamore at Malt House.

Little to say on the Swedish Houses. Pulling together consultation feedback is taking longer than expected but should be ready in a couple of weeks. Aiming to submit the planning application end March/early April. Request/prefer parish meet last week of March.

Environment and Biodiversity Group update. Litter pick; many bags of litter in Echo Lane. Cllr. wants signage put up but consensus is that people who dump this rubbish will pay little attention to signage. 10th May nurturing day @ St. Cyr's.

The footpath item was discussed earlier in the meeting. There are some issues at Piers Court which is a private residence with private gardens. There has been some confusion about footpath routes and dogs not being under close control. Conversations with Cllrs,owner and GCC on-going.

Myself and Cllr Braun left for a catch up meeting in the car park.

Edit: 14-3-2026 Kath's stepping back from Speedwatch not Bio-diversity. #stinchcombe

My informal notes from last Wednesdays Parish Council meeting that I attended along with Cllr. Braun.

Prior to the main council meeting there was a packed community consultation about the proposed redevelopment at 1-4 The Avenue, Stinchcombe. It was a really good opportunity to speak with the SDC project team. Overall there seems to be agreement that, despite the lack of facilities in the village, the design is OK but the density of development is a cause for concern. Highway issues were also voiced. Have your say. [Online consultation here] (https://www.stroud.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/about-the-council/have-your-say/consultations/proposed-redevelopment-at-1-4-the-avenue-stinchcombe/)

After everyone left the room was reconfigured for the parish council meeting. Apologies were received from the Clerk and Cllr. Linda Cohen.

A brief discussion on a planning application that missed the agenda pack. The consultation ends on the 8th of Jan. I was able to get SDC to offer an extension until the 15th on this to prevent an extraordinary meeting being called. :)

The meeting orgainsed by North Nibley PC with most of the other neighbouring town and parish councils was thought to have been really worthwhile. Myself and Catherine answered some question on the SDC Councillors Report.

There was quite a discussion about how to make better contact with parishioners. Maybe getting some leaflets printed. There will a comms meeting after Xmas. After the consultation event there was little more to say about the Swedish Houses.

Myself and Cllr Braun left soon after. #stinchcombe

My informal notes from last Wednesdays Parish Council meeting that I attended along with Cllr. Braun.

Apologies from a couple of Cllrs and Cllr. Linda Cohen.

Quick discussion on previous action points. Playground signs ordered by Highways. One near to bench by Church. One coming up Wick lane mounted on an existing sign. Parish Council would like to see the trustees' village hall minutes for better collaboration. Various cleaned up pavements and drains down Church lane. Village gate 30mph sign missing.

A quick run though of the latest district councillor report. LGR sucks up a lot of time.

A few planning items discussed. Discussed the plans for the Swedish Houses and agree any actions. There is recent speed data/traffic data – 35.4mph – 34mph speed. mean speed 30 – 35mph which matches the data supplied with the upcoming planning information. Discussion of public meeting for Swedish houses. Probably w/c public 1st Dec week which will allow for 24th Nov for council to meet.

Updates from working groups. Playground all good – hedging. Talking bench. Community shed (Mens' Shed) – use of church.

Biodiversity and road safety – Police sent letters to speeders, four follow up cases. Re-locating vas cameras – Green Energy Group. Agreed to fund a thermal imaging camera for advice on heat loss and green energy also an indoor air smart monitor. Communication and Engagement. Community First Aid Event (Cllr Wall) St john ambulance.

Both myself and Cllr left the meeting for a quick catch-up meeting in the car park. #stinchcombe

My informal notes from last Wednesdays Parish Council meeting that I attended on my own as Cllrs. Braun and Cohen had other meetings to attend.

Great to see a new Cllr joining the team; Jon Powlesland who recently moved to Stinchcombe. Chartered accountant by background and has worked for various corporates. Currently at the National Trust.

One person arrived for the public forum arrived but left after talking with the Chair. They thought there would be an item on the Swedish homes. Also they wanted to raise that the telephone box was looking tatty.

It was noted that Highways are ordering a new sign for play area. After a site meeting it was apparent that there is no suitable GCC land for a sign along Wick Lane. However, there is a place at the edge of the playground. If placed in the playing field itself it would be clearly visible on the approach to the playground entrance. Some drains close to Court Barn/House were blocked and they were not on Highways' list so now that they are they should be in the schedule for clearing. Swedish houses; traffic egress to the site was mentioned but that's a planning issue and not dealt with by this department.

A rota for the safety checks for the swings was discussed and also that it would helpful to get a blower to clear leaves and debris from the mats. Lengthy discussion on how best to ensure the grass is mowed around the parish. Not a big job but the scope is increasing.

The October SDC Councillors' report was taken as read because the meeting was running behind a little. Like the North Nibley meeting I mentioned that the IOPC has now completed its independent investigation of Chief Constable Rod Hansen. There is a case to answer and a tribunal will convene in the next couple of months. Also, following the BBC Panorama one of the officers serving at Charing Cross Police station subsequently transferred to Gloucestershire Constabulary so action will probably follow.

The clerk noted that a resident was trying to establish the ownership of two trees on a bank close to the Malthouse, they are looking a bit precarious and may come down in high winds.

Lengthy discussion on a planning application for tree work, but no comment in the end. No comment either for the rest of the applications including the one over at Gloucestershire Science And Technology Park.

I left the meeting at this point, absolutely tired out. There was still a lot of business left to deal with. #stinchcombe

I attended Stinchcombe Parish Council meeting Tuesday night last week along with GCC/SDC Cllr Cohen. Here are my personal notes.

Sadly, due to holidays and an unexpected apology the council was not quorate so only informal discussions were had, no decisions could be taken. One member of the public had taken time out to speak to the council.

Cllr. Cohen gave a quick overview of her County Council report. Back to school and road safety. Highways are on top of works generally. The road around the church has been filled. Community grant scheme similar to build back better to launch in October. Cycle for September, talked about bike hire scheme, people gaining confidence. Govt. initiative to encourage employers to employ younger people to do Saturday work.

I gave an brief summary of the SDC Councillors' Report. The target date for the Tait's Hill planning application is the end of September. SDC has decided that their preferred choice for whichever unitary that's chosen is that it becomes part of WECA. The overriding feeling was that Stroud District naturally connects with Bristol, the south west and Wales.

Planning application S.25/1284/FUL (Erection of an agricultural storage barn, and retrospective consent for mobile field shelter and site groundworks)was discussed at some length. A member of the public saw that the parish hadn't provided response and wanted to say that the site is opposite Stancombe Park which is a Grade I listed park and gardens. Various concerns were voiced including that structures are sometimes built without consent and then used to manipulate the planning system. The concerns were well presented and noted.

There was discussion about the official opening of the new Playground which happened last Sunday (the 7th). The weather en-route to Stinchcombe was atrocious. We ran to the church which was bustling with people. Lots of children and teddy bears. A lovely blessing/service followed. The clouds parted and the sun came out, so we were able to go to thee playground after all. Following the ribbon cutting ceremony we all made our way back to the church for cream teas and to witness the brave teddies abseiling!

There's some background to Playground scheme here. An amazing community effort by all involved! #stinchcombe

I thought I should produce a quick summary of the appeal which was dismissed today. The PDF is here. Great community collaboration on this fight btw, including the Taits Hill Road Action Group, Cam Community Action Group, the local parish councils, and many other community spirited individuals.

As you know, Clifton Homes was appealing SDC's decision to refuse the development of up to 73 dwellings, public open space, a community orchard, and associated infrastructure on land north of Tait's Hill Road, Dursley (adjacent to Cam and the Cotswolds National Landscape).

Outcome: The appeal is dismissed, and the original refusal by Stroud District Council stands.

Key Reasons for Dismissal The Inspector identified four main issues, three of which caused harm:

Character and Appearance – The development would create a “modern suburb” that contrasts sharply with the existing low-density, scattered rural character of the area. – It would have an “amalgamating effect,” erasing the distinct separation between the settlements of Cam and Stinchcombe, which is vital to the area's spatial identity. – This conflicts with established SDC Local Plan policies regarding settlement hierarchy and design.

Cotswolds National Landscape – Although not inside the protected landscape, the site is in its setting. – The development would cause adverse visual impacts on the Cotswold Escarpment views, ranging from moderate to major from specific viewpoints. – It would introduce “urbanising” elements and visual clutter, harming the special qualities of tranquillity and natural beauty. – The Inspector accorded “substantial weight” to this harm, noting it conflicted with the statutory duty to conserve and enhance the landscape.

Highway Safety and Sustainable Transport – The Inspector concluded that concerns regarding access safety and sustainable transport had been satisfactorily addressed by the appellant through additional evidence and Section 106 agreements.

Biodiversity – The proposal was deemed capable of delivering the required 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). – Concerns regarding bats and the Woodchester Park SSSI were addressed by expert evidence.

Note: The Inspector did not reach a conclusion on the impact on the Severn Estuary SAC/SPA/Ramsar site because the appeal was dismissed on other grounds, meaning a Habitats Regulations Assessment was not required.

Planning Balance While the Inspector acknowledged significant benefits (severe local housing shortage with only 3.24 years' supply and the delivery of 40% affordable housing), these were outweighed by the harms.

Specifically, the harm to the Cotswolds National Landscape was deemed “decisive.” Under national planning policy, great weight must be given to protecting National Landscapes. The Inspector determined that the adverse impacts on the landscape's special qualities provided a “strong reason for refusing” the development, even though the local housing policies were considered “out of date.”

As always, if you have any questions or just want a chat I'm easily contactable, phone numbers and e-mail on my home page. Use my contact info if you spot errors or I've just got something completely wrong! Also, I'm not using Facebook much any more, but feel free to link and share these reports using whatever social media you fancy.

You can also find me on the Fediverse (social media without adverts, algorithms or outrage) here:– https://stroud.social/eco-g #stinchcombe

My informal notes from last nights Parish Council meeting that I attended along with SDC Cllr Braun and SDC/GCC Cllr Cohen.

Normal meeting formalities. Two members of the public present to give verbal reports later in the meeting.

A few matters were discussed from previous meetings; playground signs, rota for the swings, mowing. Minutes from the council’s previous meeting were approved.

The Council to received the SDC District Councillors' report and a verbal update for Cllr Cohen's report an earlier version here

It was discussed that holiday to-do links were publicised. I think this was the one referred to:– https://familyhubs.gloucestershire.gov.uk/

Also regarding LGR (Local Government Reorganisation) there is a new future gloucestershire media-rich micro site available for information and links through to a residents survey.

Most important was the news that Rushmire Hill reopened on Friday 4th July. Roads on the diversion routes will be checked for wear and repaired as required.

We have a new bus service to Yate, the Y8, also known as the Yate Link, and is due to extend its route into Wotton-under-Edge starting from August 31. The new administration is keen to reduce speeds to 20mph where communities live and work, where there is support from parish councils.

Then followed report from Clerk and verbal reports from councillors. Re-installation of the noticeboard – insurance approved quote and work in hand.

No planning applications to consider this month.

Then some updates from the various working Groups

Kath Hudson gave an update for the Environment and Biodiversity Group;

10th Aug bio blitz. identify flora and fauna – interesting activities, collect data that can be used by professionals. Small mammal foot prints, tunnels etc. for kids. Treasure hunt and activity etc. Asked if the Council could fund catering £100 for the event and payment methods discussed.

The Footpaths Group is focusing on meeting land owners and building relationships. They are focusing on the better used paths to start with.

Community Recreational Space (incl. Children’s Play Area). I think there was a soft opening yesterday after school finished. The official opening is set for 12 noon with a blessing on the 7th Sept. Press coverage, bring a picnic.

A checklist is required for the swings at DRFC. There was a meeting – about village of the year – trying to use a springboard for other activity in the village.

Speedwatch and Road Safety Matters.

20mph limits is a hot topic at GCC with the new administration, there was discussion, but didn't catch if thought viable on the main route.

The current speed routine ticking over. Vehicle activated signs that display your speed are being moved between locations. The Council is reporting the10 worst speeders to the police on a monthly basis. Average speed is decreasing each month and 85th percentile reducing. Taits Hill speeds reducing.

Call for meeting with parish councillors to try and agree strategy. The 'VAS' is out of warranty but they now know what it can and can't do. Good to for collecting data. Speed cameras are more promising. Solar power needs good location.

Updates on the Village Hall building works and agree any actions. Charlie gave an update. Objections to the plans caused great disruption to the project. Lost 14 weeks and the builder. The roof issues have been overcome with a solution that conforms to the original plans. Sadly a completion date of Oct-Nov was mooted. Now needs grant as short of money. It was questioned if the Council representative, on the committee is required to become a trustee.

Myself, Cllr. Braun and Cohen left the meeting at this point for yet another 'street-meet' to catch up on a myriad of other issues.

#stinchcombe

My informal notes from last nights Parish Council meeting that I attended along with SDC Cllr Braun and SDC/GCC Cllr Cohen.

Prior to the council meeting there was a farewell get together, with residents, for a drink to thank Marian Shaw for her amazing 29 years on Stinchcombe Parish Council. This was going to be her last Parish Council meeting. It was also a good opportunity to socialise and caught up on a few projects going on to see if there was any help myself or SDC could offer.

Barbara Piranty also gave a short talk about the Gloucestershire Rural Community Council (GRCC). She is their CEO. They work to develop and enhance communities in the county. Barbara explained how their Village of the year competition worked. Although it is too late to apply this year, it's something which the community might want to engage with next year. First prize in each category is £2,000 and £1,000 for the runner up. Valuable funding for some community project.

The meeting moved indoors and kicked off with the normal formalities. Cllr Marian Shaw 's resignation was accepted. Just one member of the public was here to observe proceedings, they didn't want to speak.

Cllr Cohen was asked about the Church Lane resurfacing. It's on the schedule which is in the process of being drawn up, all OK but no confirmed timescale yet.

No questions on the County councillor report but I had a few late additions to the District Councillors report:-

• Businesses and community organisations in rural parts of the district can now apply for a share of £120,000 for capital projects. SDC also has £40,000 of UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) grants available for capital projects located anywhere in Stroud district.

• StroudFunding (SDC’s crowdfunding platform, where eligible projects are topped up with SDC funding) – the next round will be launched in late June 2025. Workshops will be planned for mid-July, with a deadline to have your project ready by the end of September.

• SDC’s Apprenticeship programme has reopened, with five apprenticeships now open for applications, to start in September 2025. Apprenticeship Open Evenings are being held in the SDC Restaurant at Ebley Mill on 4th and 18th June, 4-7pm.

• Work on local government reorganisation has now restarted in earnest following the county elections and towards the November 28th deadline by which final proposals will be submitted. Officers from all levels are working together on a variety of work streams to begin to set out the detail for both the proposed single and two-unitary models. Government have still not indicated whether they will provide any detailed guidance as to the role of parish & town councils in unitarisation, but it is clear that you will be key partners for any unitary council(s) in the county.

No planning decisions.

Updates from Working Groups and Councillors

The Speedwatch group wants to call a meeting regarding priorities.

Community Recreational Space. Playground; equipment gone in, paths next (soon). signage (needs agreement) can be opened by end of June with luck. Official opening 7th September, maybe a picnic, discuss with play group. Insurance is in progress. A4 No dogs signs required. Litter bin requirement discussed. Playground sign required on highway, road is narrow and egress from the site needs care.

Footpaths Group need some help, by way of training. Maybe from PROW officer at GCC?

Swings at DRFC are now completed. Swings need signage and to be signed off. Volunteers are doing mowing, keep under review. Parish Council’s Communication and Engagement Strategy, this evenings evnet was one. More discussion needed about best village to move forward.

To plan meeting with Roadwatch and Speed Safety Group to discuss proposals and priorities for the current year outside of council.

To consider how the Parish Council can prepare for devolution. The clerk has a meeting on 12th July.
Personal Comment: [This latest guidance from Govt (just last week) seems to diminish the role of parish and town councils somewhat, in favour of Area Committees (which may or may not involve parish and town councils). The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government now seems to suggest it will be up to local areas to determine their role. Things are obviously in a state of flux.]

The Clerk needed confirmation of ownership of various assets in the village for the asset register.

Bins, both litter and dog poo, were discussed at length. There appeared to be a mismatch with data on the publicly available maps that SDC used to allow people to report damage or overflowing bins. The Report it system is great and I would encourage everyone to use it.

There are two dog poo bins and four litter bins in the village. However, the litter bins located outside the village hall, by the bus stop and the one outside the church are not on the SDC map. I've asked for that to be sorted.

Myself, Cllrs Braun and Cohen left the meeting at this point.

#stinchcombe